Pearl S. Buck's Desk: The Legendary Desk behind the Literary Legend

In a mood of faith and hope my work goes on. A ream of fresh paper lies on my desk waiting for the next book. I am a writer and I take up my pen to write.
         Pearl S. Buck

Pearl S. Buck's desk in the large library of the Pearl S. Buck House

 Pearl S. Buck was an extremely prolific writer and is credited with over 1,300 literary works. However, the desks she sat at to create her literary works were few.
This desk is the one she credits where her “serious writing” began for it was at this desk that her characters came to life for her. The majority of her early writings occurred at this desk, including the second most-widely-read book of the 20th century, The Good Earth.

This pedestal writing desk made of Chinese late Qing Dynasty design in zitan wood was first used in her attic office in Nanjiing, China overlooking Purple Mountain. The desk dates from the 19th century and is constructed in three parts: the shallow super structure of rectangular shape comprising of frame and panel top, over a frieze of raised panels, fitted along the front with three drawers; the pair of support sections each contain a pair of drawers to front and a deep panel to side above molded square legs conjoined by an open lattice work stretcher shelf.

Ms. Buck was so much at home at this desk while writing, that she brought the desk to the United States with her in 1934. It accompanied her wherever she settled; in New York from 1934 to 1938 and then in Perkasie, Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Ms. Buck moved it briefly to Philadelphia in the early 1960’s but later settled it into her home at Green Hills Farm, known today as the Pearl S. Buck House. Originally, the desk was placed in Ms. Buck’s office with an east-facing orientation. Several years later, it was moved to the large library. After placement in multiple locations in the large library space over time, she moved it to its current position, facing east in the center of the room.

Today, visitors to the Pearl S. Buck House can tour the national historic landmark site year-round to view the desk and typewriter that launched the literary legend of Pearl S. Buck. www.pearlsbuck.org.

Child Sponsorship:Shedding Light this Holiday

As 2013 draws to a close, it is natural to reflect on the months that have come and gone. Beyond the consideration of whether we loved, lived or laughed, many will find ourselves pondering how purposeful our days and moments were. Did we make an impact? Did we matter? Individuals looking for a sense of purpose this season should look towards child sponsorship through Pearl S. Buck International’s Opportunity House program. Child Sponsorship sends a message to Sponsored Children that they matter. Child sponsorship lets Child Sponsors know that their lives matter, too.

Child Sponsors are Dream Makers.

Beyond the basics of food, water and shelter, child sponsorship provides opportunities and hope for children through education and it is that education that becomes the fuel for their dreams. The gift of child sponsorship is a ticket to dream.

A Sponsored Child with his Tutor

It is a pathway out of poverty and despair. Knowing that someone, somewhere cares for them, not only brings the outside world closer for the sponsored children, but it gives them the tools they need to be successful.


Education is by far one of the most powerful tools they can have in their toolbox to build self-reliance and self-esteem in order to construct a solid future. Child sponsorship enables children to remain a vibrant part of a community where they can have impact and break the cycle of poverty and suffering.

Bringing Peace, Joy and Light

We invite you to shed some light this holiday season. Child sponsorship brings light into the life of a child. Changing the life of a child as a child sponsor also brings joy and light into the heart of the sponsor, adding meaning to their life, and yes, it will matter. www.pearlsbuck.org/sponsor.

Pamela Carroll

Marketing Director